How long does a power wheelchair battery last? The answer to one of the most common questions we get may surprise you. While many factors can affect battery life, your electric wheelchair batteries can last for years with proper care and maintenance.
In this blog, I will look at some things that can impact how long your motorized wheelchair battery will last. You will also learn a few tips for keeping your battery in good condition.
One of the main things that will affect how long your power wheelchair battery lasts is how often you use it. Suppose you only use your electric wheelchair occasionally. In that case, your batteries will last longer than if you use them every day. When batteries are not in use, they will slowly lose their charge.
Another factor that can impact battery life is the power wheelchair you have. Some motorized wheelchairs are more energy-efficient than others, leading to longer battery life. Suppose you are not sure how energy-efficient your power wheelchair is. In that case, you can check with the manufacturer or your healthcare provider.
Proper care and maintenance of your electric wheelchair batteries are also important if you want them to last. Ensure you read your motorized wheelchair’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on caring for the batteries. In general, you should avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, as this can damage the batteries. You should also avoid getting the batteries wet, as this can cause them to short-circuit.
If you follow these tips, you can help prolong the life of your power wheelchair battery. If you have any questions about electric wheelchair batteries or how to care for them, be sure to ask your healthcare provider or the manufacturer of your motorized wheelchair.
Types of Power Wheelchair Batteries
Three types of power wheelchair batteries are available: sealed lead-acid (SLA), nickel-cadmium (NiCd), and lithium-ion (Li-ion).
Sealed Lead-Acid (SLA) Batteries
SLA batteries most commonly power electric wheelchairs. They are relatively inexpensive, and they have a long lifespan. However, they do not perform well in cold weather, and they can be heavy.
Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd) Batteries
NiCd batteries are less common than SLA batteries, but they have some advantages. They perform better in cold weather, and they are not as heavy. However, they are more expensive, and they have a shorter lifespan.
Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) Batteries
Li-ion batteries are the newest type of battery used in motorized wheelchairs. They are lighter than other batteries, and they have a longer lifespan. However, they are more expensive.
Power Wheelchairs Batteries
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How to Care for Your Power Wheelchair Battery?
As I mentioned above, proper care and maintenance of your power wheelchair battery are important if you want it to last. The following are some tips on how to maintain the battery in your electric wheelchair:
• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. Extreme cold or heat can damage the battery.
• Avoid getting the battery wet. If the battery gets wet, it can cause a short circuit.
• Read the owner’s manual for your motorized wheelchair. It will have specific instructions on how to care for the battery.
Choosing the Right Power Wheelchair Battery
When choosing a power wheelchair battery, it is important to consider your needs and budget. If you need a battery that will last a long time
The most common type of battery is the SLA battery. It is a sealed battery, which means that it is maintenance-free. The NiCd battery is also a sealed battery containing toxic chemicals, so it must be disposed of properly. A Li-on battery does not have a seal, so it is the newest type of battery. It does not contain toxic chemicals, but it is more expensive than the other two types of batteries.
Conclusion
A typical electric wheelchair battery lasts three years. You should remember, though, that this number varies based on the make and model of your chair and the frequency with which you use it.
Citations
https://wsrsolutions.com/how-long-do-power-wheelchair-batteries-last/#:~:text=Generally%2C%20power%20wheelchair%20batteries%20that,until%20a%20replacement%20is%20needed.
https://northeastbattery.com/electric-power-wheel-chair-batteries/
